Is Cleo app legit?
Cleo is a legit cash advance app. The company, Cleo AI Inc., is headquartered in Wilmington and claims that millions of people rely on their services. While Cleo is legitimate, it's important to note that in March 2025, the FTC filed a lawsuit against them for deceptive practices. The FTC alleged that Cleo misled users by advertising cash advances of "up to $250" when most received significantly less after subscribing. They were also accused of not clearly disclosing express fees for same-day access and making it difficult for users to cancel subscriptions. As part of a settlement, Cleo agreed to pay $17 million in refunds and is under a ten-year consent order to prevent future deceptive practices.
How reliable is Cleo?
From the reviews we analyzed in July 2025, users generally find Cleo to be a reliable app. Here's what they have to say:
- Lifesaver: Many users describe Cleo as a lifesaver that helps them out when they need extra cash during tough times.
- Always there when needed: Several users appreciate that Cleo is "always there when needed," providing support when finances get tight.
- Reliable and helpful: Users praise Cleo for being reliable and helpful, often mentioning how the app has been a "blessing" and that they "can always depend on Cleo."
- Unpredictable advance amounts: A few users express frustration over inconsistent advance amounts, stating Cleo can be "unreliable" due to fluctuating offered amounts.
Overall, the majority of users view Cleo as a dependable companion that comes through when they need it most, helping them navigate financial tight spots.
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How much can I get from Cleo?
Many users find that getting Cleo's advertised maximum cash advance of $250 can be a challenge. Here's what we found:
- Quick cash in a pinch: Some folks appreciate that Cleo provides extra funds when times are tough.
- Low starting amounts: Many people report initial offers as low as $20 to $30, with some only receiving $25 or $40 even after regular use.
- Inconsistent increases: Users who repay on time often expect their advance limits to rise, but several mention their amounts staying the same or even decreasing—from $150 down to $40 without explanation.
- Unmet expectations: Some were shown higher eligible amounts (like $200 or $230) but couldn’t access them when they tried, leading to frustration.
- Fees add up: The app charges subscription and advance fees, which can feel hefty when the advance amounts are low. A few users mention paying fees for advances they couldn't even get.
If you're aiming for Cleo's full $250 advance, be prepared to start small and possibly face some unpredictability in your available amounts.
What users say?
Scam reports
Even though Cleo is a legit company, we found 50+ reviews published recently describing the service as scammy (for context, this is out of hundreds we analyzed). About 40 explicitly call the service a “scam”, “fraud”, or “thieves” while others describe forced charges or hidden fees that make them feel similarly deceived.
Several users worry about identity theft or data misuse, and many say they never received the promised cash advances but still got charged. Some mention being unable to cancel subscriptions or reach customer service, feeling frustrated by unhelpful AI bots.
The overarching theme is that people feel tricked or financially harmed, pointing to unwanted subscriptions, surprise fees, and difficulties in canceling or resolving issues.